Jesus Calling: May 8

     Do not long for the absence of problems in your life. That is an unrealistic goal, since in this world you will have trouble. You have an eternity of problem-free living reserved for you in heaven. Rejoice in that inheritance, which no one can take away from you, but do not seek your heaven on earth.
     Begin each day anticipating problems, asking Me to equip you for whatever difficulties you will encounter. The best equipping is My living Presence, My hand that never lets go of yours. Discuss everything with Me. Take a lighthearted view of trouble, seeing it as a challenge that you and I together can handle. Remember that I am on your side, and I have overcome the world. 

John 16:33
English Standard Version

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

Verse Thoughts
From MacArthur Study Bible - The word "peace" reflects the Hebrew "Shalom," which became a greeting to his disciples after the resurrection. This peace secures composure in difficult trouble, dissolves fear, and rules in the hearts of God's people to maintain harmony. From Gray and Adams Bible Commentary - Tribulation is sorrow, trial, and persecution, but "in me" victory is already realized. Jesus will give us strength and aid and will supply the means to completely subdue it. 

In the Pitti Palace, at Florence, there are two pictures which hang side by side. One represents a stormy sea with its wild waves, and black clouds and fierce lightnings flashing across the sky. In the waters a human face is seen, wearing an expression of the utmost agony and despair. The other picture also represents a sea, tossed by as fierce a storm, with as dark clouds; but out of the midst of the waves a rock rises, against which the waters dash in vain. In a cleft of the rock are some tufts of grass and green herbage, with sweet flowers, and amid these a dove is seen sitting on her nest, quiet and undisturbed by the wild fury of the storm. The first picture fitly represents the sorrow of the world when all is helpless and despairing; and the other, the sorrow of the Christian, no less severe, but in which he is kept in perfect peace, because he nestles in the bosom of God's unchanging love.

(S. S. Times.)
 
Isaiah 41:13
English Standard Version

For I, the Lord your God,
    hold your right hand;
it is I who say to you, “Fear not,
    I am the one who helps you.

Verse Thoughts
He holds our right hand against our enemies.  

Philippians 4:13
English Standard Version

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Verse Thoughts
From MacArthur Study Bible - The Greek word for strengthen means "to put power in." Because believers are in Christ, he infuses them with his strength to sustain them until they receive some provision. Dr. Raffles - The Christian, is the strength of Christ, can perform any service, make any sacrifice, and endure any suffering for His sake. From Gray and Adams Commentary - The believer is weak in himself. But he is not alone. Allied to Christ he is strong to overcome evil and to do good.

My Prayer
Lord, help me to not be in shock when I experience problems. I too quickly want to quick or change my surroundings so that life will be easier. But, you will hold my right hand. And I can let you carry me. Help me to see the victory I already have with you, in me.

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